Process

Summary

The Secondary Suites project was based on a four-phase process.

Phase one involved the creation of a secondary suite study and consultation plan. The Study provided background information on secondary suites including a summary of the benefits and challenges of allowing secondary suites in a range of locations; a review of different issues that need to be considered prior to allowing suites and; a discussion of factors that should be considered for determining where secondary suites could be allowed in the region. The Study was based on a staff review of existing data on housing in the region together with the experience and practices of other jurisdictions that allow secondary suites.

The information presented in the Secondary Suites Study was used as background information for implementing Phase 2 of the process outlined in the Secondary Suites Consultation Plan. This engagement phase provided an opportunity for the community to share their thoughts on Secondary Suites in the RDN.

During Phase 3 of the process RDN compiled and analyzed the consultation results. Based on the positive community response to secondary suites, a draft proposal was developed and opportunities for public input on the draft secondary suites proposal were provided.

Based on positive community response to the draft secondary suites proposal, zoning amendments were initiated. There were further opportunities for the community to provide input prior to the adoption of the zoning amendment bylaws on May 27, 2014.

Community Engagement

The following provides an overview of the community engagement activities held during the secondary suites project.

Public Hearing

A Public Hearing was been scheduled for proposed Zoning Amendment Bylaws 500.389 and 1285.19 on April 7, 2014 at 7:00 pm in the RDN Board Room located at 6300 Hammond Bay Road in Nanaimo.

Information Sessions

Two information sessions were held to present, discuss, and obtain community feedback on the proposed secondary suites program. The information sessions were scheduled as follows:

Date

Location

February 26
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
(Presentation at 7:00)

Coombs Rodeo Grounds
2601 Alberni Hwy

February 27
6:00pm - 8:30 pm
(Presentation at 7:00pm)

Cedar Community Hall
2388 Cedar Rd

Online Questionnaire Results

Home owners, renters, and those who plan on becoming home owners or renters in the near future were invited to participate in an online survey. The purpose of the survey was to gather community input on secondary suites that would be used to inform a staff recommendation to the Board on how to proceed with secondary suites within Electoral Areas A, C, E, F, G, and H.

Thanks to all who participated in the online survey. The survey is now closed. Please click here to view the results.

Past Information Sessions

The RDN hosted four information sessions to raise awareness about the RDN Secondary Suites Project and to provide opportunities across the region for Electoral Area A, C, E, F, G, and H residents to discuss secondary suites with RDN staff and share ideas and concerns.

Attendance at Community Events

Regional District of Nanaimo Staff attended community events throughout the region during the 2013 summer months. Regional District of Nanaimo staff were in attendance at the following events to provide information and answer questions regarding secondary suites.

Date

Event

Location

July 6, 2013

Teddy Bear Picnic

Jack Bagley Community Park, Nanoose

July 21, 2013

Cedar Farmers Market

2313 Yellow Point Road

July 27, 2013

Errington Farmers Market

1390 Errington Road, Errington

August 31, 2013

Lighthouse Fall Fair

240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay

Presentation(s)

The RDN has prepared informational materials including a presentation and a brochure.

Click the link below to download the Powerpoint Presentation to present on your own.

The staff report and recommended changes to Bylaw 1285.19 were considered. Discussion at the Board meeting resulted in alternate amendments being made prior to 1st and 2nd reading. The bylaw was then given 1st and 2nd reading as amended by the Board. Note the bylaw attached to the staff report has been further amended by the Board.